LCCI Calls for Supportive Policies to Boost Pakistan’s Paper Industry

The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on the government to develop well-considered, supportive policies for Pakistan’s paper industry, which plays a crucial role in sectors such as education, publishing, and packaging. The industry is currently grappling with a range of challenges that hinder its growth and competitiveness.

Speaking to a 200-member delegation from the All Pakistan Paper Merchants Association (APPMA) at the LCCI on Thursday, President Mian Abuzar Shad and Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman highlighted the importance of targeted policy interventions to revitalize the sector.

Mian Abuzar Shad reassured the APPMA delegation of the chamber’s commitment to advocating for the paper industry’s interests at the highest government levels. He emphasized the need for relief measures, including cuts in import duties on raw materials and tax breaks, to alleviate the financial pressures facing the industry.

“The government should consider reducing import duties on raw materials required for paper production,” Shad said. “This would reduce production costs, benefiting both businesses and consumers.”

In addition to duty reductions, the LCCI officials also recommended lowering the sales tax on the paper sector, which would further ease financial burdens, lower production costs, and enhance the competitiveness of locally produced paper.

Former LCCI Presidents Mian Anjum Nisar and Muhammad Ali Mian joined the discussion, stressing the importance of stabilizing energy costs. They urged the government to take steps to control electricity prices, allowing paper manufacturers to operate profitably without sacrificing quality.

The LCCI leadership assured the APPMA delegation that they would raise the sector’s concerns with the government to foster a more supportive environment for the paper industry’s growth. They pointed out that addressing these challenges would not only strengthen the paper industry but also contribute to Pakistan’s economic resilience by enhancing the sector’s competitiveness and supporting a more diversified economy.